ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hunky

adj.
C2 Proficiency US //ˈhəŋki// UK //hˈʌŋki// hunky Informal Slang

adj. describing a man who is very attractive and has a strong, healthy body. It is a casual way to say someone is good-looking.

adj. describing a man as physically attractive and robust.


SIMPLE

He is a hunky guy with a great smile.

CONTEXTUAL

The movie star is famous for his hunky looks and his ability to play action heroes.

Etymology 1

From hunk + -y.

Etymology 2

From the older *hunk, probably alteration of Hungarian + -ie/-y. Compare bohunk and honky / honkey.

© 2026 English Reference